Multivariable Calculus + Physics help

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving multivariable calculus, specifically the trajectory of a baseball hit from a height of 4 feet with an initial velocity of \(\vec v(0)=40 \vec i+12 \vec j\) (ft/s) while neglecting air resistance. The key equations of motion are derived from the acceleration due to gravity, \(g=32\) ft/s². The solution involves integrating the acceleration to find the equations of motion, which will yield the horizontal distance traveled and the maximum height reached by the baseball.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of multivariable calculus concepts, particularly integration.
  • Familiarity with basic physics principles, including projectile motion.
  • Knowledge of vector notation and operations in physics.
  • Ability to apply initial conditions to solve differential equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the equations of motion in projectile motion scenarios.
  • Learn how to integrate acceleration functions to derive velocity and position equations.
  • Explore the concept of initial conditions in solving differential equations.
  • Review vector calculus applications in physics for better understanding of motion in multiple dimensions.
USEFUL FOR

University students studying calculus and physics, particularly those tackling problems involving projectile motion and integration techniques in multivariable calculus.

APC40
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Hi all, I am a university student taking Calculus II at the moment. The course sometimes use physics examples, however I do not have any physics background. So I am reaching out to you guys to help me through this math question.

Homework Statement


A baseball is hit from 4ft above home plate with an initial velocity \vec v(0)=40 \vec i+12 \vec j(ft/s) (horizontally 40ft/s and vertically 12ft/s). Neglect all forces other than gravity, g=32ft/s^2
(a) How far does the ball travel horizontally?
(b) Find the maximum height reached.

Homework Equations



Equations, posted again, are \vec v(0)=40 \vec i+12 \vec j(ft/s) and g=32ft/s^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I googled and found the equation v=gt+v_i but I'm not sure if this is the right one, or how to proceed with this. Please advise.
 
Last edited:
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APC40 said:
Hi all, I am a university student taking Calculus II at the moment. The course sometimes use physics examples, however I do not have any physics background. So I am reaching out to you guys to help me through this math question.

Homework Statement


A baseball is hit from 4ft above home plate with an initial velocity \vec v(0)=40 \vec i+12 \vec j(ft/s) (horizontally 40ft/s and vertically 12ft/s). Neglect all forces other than gravity, g=32ft/s^2
(a) How far does the ball travel horizontally?
(b) Find the maximum height reached.

Homework Equations



Equations, posted again, are \vec v(0)=40 \vec i+12 \vec j(ft/s) and g=32ft/s^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I googled and found the equation v=gt+v_i but I'm not sure if this is the right one, or how to proceed with this. Please advice.

That's "advise", not "advice".

Start with the acceleration ##\vec A = 0i - 32j##, integrate twice and use your initial position and velocity to evaluate the constants to get the equations of motion.
 

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